Annabelle Clarke

PR Manager

Annabelle Clarke | Author

Eduardo Rodrigues

Content Writer

Claudia Tuñón

Isobel Coughlan

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Alastair Shephard

Group 1 is one of the leading automotive retailer groups in the country, with a portfolio of 115 dealers across the UK. Employing over 7,000 trusted colleagues, the group represent over 21 brands, including Audi, BMW, Jaguar Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz and many more. 

The network boasts an impressive aftersales care programme, ensuring customers driving away with their new vehicles have access to expert repairs and servicing. 

Unlike urgent red work, many drivers don’t feel an immediate need to have advisory work, such as worn brake pads, ageing batteries, or minor fluid leaks, completed. 

Many perceive it as discretionary spending that doesn’t require immediate attention, especially if cash is tight. 

Trust can also be a factor, with some doubting if the work even needs to be done or even wanting a second opinion. 

Even when convinced of its importance, price can be a blocker, especially if they’re facing large bills for multiple repairs. 

When Group 1 Mercedes-Benz Coventry came to Bumper, amber sales were the biggest hurdle to achieving their ambitious targets. 

PayLater, an interest-free monthly payment solution provided by Bumper, drastically reduces friction for amber sales. 

Drivers can spread the cost of work across a number of months, allowing them to take out work that’s important there and then, without having to wait until a second visit to the dealer. 

In addition, this financial safety net gives advisors more confidence when introducing advisory work into the conversion. 

When comparing year-on-year growth for February 25, the Coventry site increased the number of completed PayLaters by 56% and, despite fewer retail jobs, they saw impressive increases in their key metrics. 

As well as improvements to key performance indicators, the site received positive customer feedback through Bumper’s Trustpilot integration, which can be accessed on all service advisor accounts for real-time customer feedback. 

One driver said, “The process for applying is easy and straightforward. I’ve used it for my 3

Another said, “Quick, easy, and helped me not murder my bank account just before I went on holiday.” 

Following the site’s successful implementation of PayLater, Stuart Johnson, Site Aftersales Director of Mercedes-Benz Coventry, said:

“Amber conversion has always been a tough metric to move, but Bumper has enabled us to give customers the payment flexibility that gets them saying yes to important advisory work.

“This has resulted in a 27% increase in our average invoice value, happier customers, and, with an easy budgeting option in their toolbelt, more confident advisors.

“To anyone looking for a solution that allows you to sell more and keep your customers coming back time and time again, I’d say give Bumper a call.” 

Group 1 Mercedes-Benz Coventry: Moving the Needle on Tough Amber Sales 

 Renewing your car insurance is a chore. However, taking your time and getting it right could save you a significant amount of money. 

The best time to renew your insurance is 28 days before it runs out. 

Many drivers simply renew at the last minute without considering timing. But this can lead to you potentially missing out on cheaper premiums. 

In this article, we’ll explore the best time to renew your car insurance, how timing affects your car insurance quotes, and other practical ways to reduce your renewal costs.

When is the cheapest time to renew car insurance?

Research shows that your renewal date can have a real impact on how much you pay. The best time to renew your car insurance is usually around 

Waiting until the last minute may not always be the most cost-effective strategy, as the data shows the costs are most expensive on the day before. 

In fact, renewing a few weeks before your policy expires can often secure lower rates.

The table below shows the average premiums at different times leading up to a policy renewal, according to 

Does time of day affect car insurance quotes?

If the day you renew makes a price difference, you might wonder if getting a quote at 9 am versus 9 pm affects the price. 

Generally, insurers base quotes on factors like your driving history, car type, and location, rather than the exact hour you request the quote. 

While some anecdotal reports suggest prices can fluctuate slightly at different times of day, the differences are usually negligible. What matters more is how far in advance of your renewal date you start shopping around (in terms of days, not hours).

How to bring car insurance renewal costs down

Aside from timing, there are several other ways to reduce your renewal premium. If you have time, use these to get a better quote on your policy.

You can also bring your car-related fees down by using 

 to split surprise repair costs into interest-free instalments.

Don’t just accept the first quote you receive. Use comparison tools and websites to find the best price for your needs. 

But always read the fine print of what’s on offer before you make a final choice!

Evaluate whether you need comprehensive cover or if simple third-party, fire, and theft might suffice. 

Look at the value of your car and how much protection you realistically need when making this choice.

Opting for a higher voluntary excess can lower your premium, though make sure you can afford to pay it in the event of a claim. If you’re unsure, it’s best not to commit to a higher excess.

Sometimes, insurers give out loyalty discounts and multi-car policies. There are even safe driver incentives that can reduce renewal costs. 

So, while you’re renewing, it’s also a good time to review your driving habits. Could you drive more safely? 

What is the 21-day rule for car insurance?

The so-called “21-day rule” refers to the guideline that insurers often allow you to renew your policy up to 21 days before your current cover ends without losing benefits such as no-claims bonuses. 

Starting your renewal process within this window ensures continuous cover while giving you some time to compare quotes and lock in a better deal.

While the 21-day rule is useful to keep in mind, the research above shows that the most cost-effective time to renew is actually around 28 days before your policy expires. Consider renewing slightly earlier than the 21-day window to secure the lowest premiums while still ensuring uninterrupted coverage.

Which comparison site is best for car insurance in the UK?

Renewing your insurance well in advance is essential, but comparison sites are an invaluable tool when comparing different car insurance deals.

In the UK, popular platforms such as MoneySuperMarket, Compare the Market, and GoCompare allow you to compare hundreds of policies from different providers quickly. 

Each site has its strengths: some offer unique discounts or cashback deals, while others provide more detailed filters to narrow down coverage options. In our opinion, it's worth checking at least two or three comparison sites to ensure you’re seeing a comprehensive range of quotes. 

Remember, not all insurers appear on every site, so relying on just one platform could mean missing out on better deals elsewhere.

Ultimately, if you want an affordable car insurance deal, you need to carefully balance timing, comparison, and careful evaluation. It’s a good rule of thumb to renew around 28 days before your policy ends, so don’t put this task off until it’s the very last second!

Expensive car insurance deals are a bummer—just like surprise repair costs.

you can split the cost of repairs into monthly payments at no extra cost. 

Apply online for up to £5,000 and choose from 1,000s of trusted repairers.

When Is the Best Time To Renew Car Insurance?

Subframes make up a significant amount of a car's structural integrity, being the thing that ties the suspension to the body shell. However, like any underbody component, they are subject to extremely harsh conditions, especially in the UK, with our damp, salted roads.

This article explores the costs involved with repairing a corroded subframe and what to look out for when having the work done. 

Almost all modern cars have both a front and rear subframe; these provide stiffness and strength for the suspension components to mount to the bodyshell. The front subframe typically also supports the engine, gearbox and drivetrain components. 

Car subframes are almost always made from steel, which is a strong and cheap material to use. It does, however, rust readily if not sufficiently protected.

The cost to repair a corroded subframe can range from £300 to £3,000, depending on how bad the corrosion is, and how complex the car is.

Minimal rust can often be wire-brushed and treated, which could cost as little as £300 and be done in an afternoon, but if your subframe is very rusty and needs replacing, expect to pay a much larger bill.

Factors that affect subframe repair cost include:

Cars are mainly made of steel, a metal very susceptible to corrosion in the right circumstances. Water causes the iron in the metal to turn into iron oxide, AKA rust. Thanks to our decidedly wet weather in the UK, cars here are more susceptible to rust than most. 

Another contributing factor is salt, which accelerates the corrosion process, and with tons of it being spread on UK roads every winter, poorly protected cars don't stand a chance!

If you cannot avoid driving on UK roads throughout the winter, there are some things you can do to protect your car's subframe and entire underbody from rust:

The best way to protect your car from corrosion is to avoid driving in the winter, but this is obviously not feasible for most people, the next best option is to apply a protective coating to the subframes, suspension components and underbody. 

Products such as Lanoguard and underbody sealant can help protect the metal, but be sure to apply them only when the metal is free from rust; otherwise, any existing rust will continue to spread under the coating. 

Mud and salt can also stick to the underside of your car, especially if the roads are particularly dirty. Pressure washing the suspension, wheel arches and underbody may be a bit extreme for most, but it can help to prevent corrosion in the long term.

How to check if a car's subframe is rusty

Take a look under the car at both the front and rear. The subframe should be easy to spot; look for where the suspension arms are attached to, it will be a different colour to the bodyshell.

If you’re looking at a car for sale, or simply want to check your own car, it can pay to see if the subframe is rusty, look for obvious signs of rust, large amounts of orange, or powdery rust is cause for concern. 

If you need a subframe or any suspension work, Bumper's 

 is a great way to spread the cost, interest-free. Select from a large list of approved garages and ease your cash flow. 

 has been writing about cars for over eight years and writing for Bumper for over three, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

Subframe Corrosion Repair Cost

Bumper, the automotive payments platform, has announced three new senior hires to support its ambitious expansion plans. 

Fintech heavyweight Adrian Fradd has joined as Bumper’s Chief Strategy Officer, following 10 years at PayPal. He brings a wealth of experience in payments platforms and partnerships, building new global products for merchants and consumers, and growing omni-channel payment solutions at scale. 

At Bumper, Fradd will lead strategic projects, oversee Bumper’s Product team, and help the company develop its offering as a comprehensive payments platform. 

Joining Fradd on Bumper’s executive team, Kerry Turnbull has been appointed Chief Financial Officer. A former Deutsche Bank director and most recently Senior Vice President at Einride AB, Turnbull brings 16 years of investment banking and corporate finance experience to accelerate Bumper’s next stage of growth. 

At Einride, Turnbull led multiple successful capital raises, including the world’s first heavy-duty electric vehicle securitisation, and closed a Series C equity round. Turnbull’s background spans private and public markets across a diverse global investor base, while her Deutsche Bank pedigree adds strong European market expertise. She has a proven record in designing innovative financing structures, building resilient balance sheets and driving long-term value creation. 

As CFO, Turnbull will lead Bumper’s capital strategy, fundraising, operational finance, and investor relations, strengthening the company’s access to funding and supporting disciplined growth. 

Bumper is also expanding its Growth team with the addition of Annabelle Clarke as PR Manager, formerly Vice President for Media Relations at global communications firm Weber Shandwick. Annabelle brings a decade of consultancy experience in strategic corporate and consumer communications, with specialist expertise in technology and fast-growth businesses. Her former clients include Samsung, HP, eBay, Purplebricks, IKEA, Nespresso, Budweiser, Philips and Experian. 

Clarke will oversee Bumper’s media presence and positioning in the UK and Europe as the brand continues to evolve its payment offerings and expand internationally. 

James Jackson, CEO at Bumper, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Adrian, Kerry and Annabelle to the team, bringing with them rich collective experience across payments, technology, automotive and fast-growth companies. Our new colleagues join at an exciting time for Bumper, as we set our sights on rapid expansion plans both in the UK and internationally. These appointments will be instrumental in supporting Bumper’s growth in this next phase of our journey.” 

Bumper has marked a number of growth milestones in recent weeks. Last month, the company announced $11m in Series B extension investment and celebrated its 10

 anniversary with a refreshed brand identity. It also recently launched Bumper Pro, a full suite of payment tools for dealerships and OEMs. 

Bumper bolsters senior team with former PayPal and Deutsche Bank executives 

With how expensive certain brands and types of tyres are nowadays, being able to repair a puncture can be a great money saver, should a nail or some other piece of debris find its way into the tread. 

But how much does tyre puncture repair cost, and when can it be done? 

In the UK, tyre repair typically costs between £30 and £40 per tyre.

Naturally, this figure varies by location, type of tyre to be repaired and the type of shop you go to. National chains often have online deals or coupon codes you can make use of, but local independent repair shops may be more flexible with bookings.

Most garages will follow the same rules on when a tyre can or cannot be repaired, these are generally dictated by the British standard BSAU 159 - which can be found online. 

Whilst the standard above is quoted by most garages as the defining guide on what can and cannot be repaired, each company is likely to have its own policy on this.

This company-specific policy is likely to be more cautious than the British standard, for liability reasons, so in some cases a garage will decline to repair a tyre, instead advising you to buy a new one.

No, run-flat tyres cannot be repaired, even if the damage is in the main portion of tread, and is smaller than the max permissible size. 

Run flat tyres are designed to allow the car to be driven a short distance - typically around 50 miles - after a puncture. However, this causes irreparable damage to the tyre’s sidewall, so the tyre should no longer be used.

Getting a puncture is annoying at best, and can sometimes be very expensive if the tyre can't be fixed. Here are some tips to avoid damaging your tyres:

Split the cost of expensive repairs with Bumper's 

. Choose from 1000s of garages and apply online before your visit.

Tyre Puncture Repair Cost

Your car's exhaust not only reduces the sound of the engine, but also carries harmful fumes to the back of the vehicle instead of allowing them to enter the cabin. If your exhaust is damaged, you should get it fixed as soon as possible. 

But how much does an exhaust silencer cost to fix? This article will explain all. 

How much does it cost to repair an exhaust silencer?

Exhaust repair costs range from £30 for a simple repair to over £600 for a replacement part, depending on the car and type of garage.

Sometimes a patch or clamp is all that's needed, in which case a mechanic could have you back on the road in under an hour, with a bill of around £30 - £50.

In some cases, a new part is required, such as a back-box or centre silencer; these can range from £220 to over £500, including fitting.

There are a number of issues that could crop up at an MOT, particularly if the exhaust is leaking gases:

The term “exhaust” generally refers to a number of different parts that attach to one another. Whilst not all cars will have all of these parts, the following list includes most of the parts you need to know about:

Split your exhaust silencer replacement cost with 

 from Bumper. Choose from 1000s of reliable repairers across the country to split your bill with. Apply online and find a garage on our network today.

Exhaust Silencer Repair Cost

Kia, Jaguar, Peugeot – if car manufacturers love one thing, it's a good logo redesign. But with so much change underway in the motor industry, it can be tough to stay on top. 

Why not test your car brand knowledge with our free online car brand logo quiz? Get started below!

How many of these car brand logos do you know?

When your car suddenly starts squeaking, rattling, or making any other unusual engine noises, it’s usually a sign that something’s off. The good news is that strange car noises are often early warning signs, which means a timely intervention could save you from expensive repairs.

Let’s walk through nine common car noises, what might be causing them, and what to do next.

1. Why is my car making a noise when I turn?

If you hear clicking, knocking, or a grinding noise while turning your car, it’s often linked to issues with your CV joint, power steering system, or suspension components.

What should I do about a noise when turning?

If you hear clicking, knocking, or whining when turning, avoid driving long distances until it’s inspected. Check your power steering fluid level if you can, as low fluid can cause whining sounds. Clicking or clunking often points to worn CV joints or suspension parts, so have a mechanic look at it promptly to avoid further damage.

How much does suspension repair cost in the UK?

2. Why is my car making a rattling noise?

If your car is making a rattling sound while driving (or even idling), it usually means something under the bonnet or near the exhaust system is loose or worn out.

What should I do about a rattling noise in my car?

Check under the car when it’s cool for any visibly loose heat shields or exhaust parts. If the rattle gets louder while idling or driving, book a mechanic appointment soon. Rattles can be harmless, but they can also point to failing exhaust mounts or catalytic converter issues that need attention.

How much does it cost to replace an exhaust?

Ticking noises are usually an early sign of issues with your engine’s lubrication system of valve components. You might notice the ticking more when the engine is cold, or after the car’s been sitting for a while. While some ticking noises can be harmless, others can lead to performance issues or even severe damage if left unresolved. So, what causes ticking sounds in a car?

What should I do about a ticking noise in my car?

Start by checking your engine oil level and condition. If the oil is low or dirty, top it up or change it to see if that helps. If it continues, don’t ignore it – have a professional mechanic check it out. 

50% of UK drivers delay repairs due to cost

, and many end up paying the price with bigger, more expensive problems down the line. 

4. Why is my car making a squeaking noise?

If your car makes a squeaking sound when braking, accelerating, or starting up, it’s usually down to something worn, loose, or under stress.

What should I do about a squeaking noise in my car?

Start by checking the likely causes: brake pads, the serpentine belt, and the clutch if you drive a manual. If the brake pads look thin or worn, replace them as soon as possible. 

If the squeak happens on cold starts or when you accelerate, have the serpentine belt inspected for wear or tension. And if you hear it while changing gears, get the clutch checked. A quick visit to a mechanic can confirm the issue and prevent bigger problems later.

5. Why is my car making a whistling noise?

A whistling noise while driving usually means air is escaping from part of your engine, often through a cracked hose, vacuum leak, or damaged seal. The sound can be high-pitched and may get louder when accelerating or idling. This is one of those noises that’s easy to overlook, but it could be masking a much bigger problem with your engine’s air-fuel mixture.

What should I do about a whistling noise in my car?

Check for any obvious leaks in vacuum hoses or the intake system and listen carefully when the engine is idling. If you suspect a loose or damaged hose, avoid driving long distances until a mechanic inspects it, as air leaks can affect performance and fuel economy.

If one of these car noises turns into a real issue, don’t panic about the bill. With Bumper’s interest-free 

, you can avoid a lump-sum payment and handle the cost like a pro. It’s a smarter alternative to a traditional car repair loan, with no interest and no stress. 

6. Why is my car making a knocking noise from the engine?

If you hear a knocking or thudding noise from your engine, especially when accelerating, there might be some abnormal combustion or worn internal components.

What should I do about a knocking noise from the engine?

Stop driving if the knocking is loud or persistent, as it could signal serious engine damage. Check your car’s oil level and fuel quality, then book a professional inspection as soon as possible. Engine knocks can quickly worsen if left untreated. 

7. Why is my car making a scraping noise when driving or braking?

A scraping or grinding sound (especially when slowing down or turning) usually means some friction between parts of your car. It’s a noise you should never ignore, as it’s often linked to your car’s braking systems or wheels. You might notice the noise gets worse when you press the brake pedal or drive at low speeds. 

Avoid driving until you find the cause. Check for debris around the wheels and look for signs of worn brake pads. If the noise persists or braking feels weaker, get your car to a mechanic immediately, as braking issues can be dangerous.

8. Why does my car backfire when accelerating?

during acceleration, this could be a backfire caused by fuel igniting outside the combustion chamber. While it sounds dramatic, it’s often down to a simple issue that can be easily corrected.

What should I do if my car backfires when accelerating?

Check your fuel quality and make sure your car isn’t overdue for a service. Backfiring often points to ignition or fuel system issues, so arrange a professional inspection quickly to prevent damage to your exhaust or engine.

9. Why does my car vibrate while driving?

If your car feels like it’s vibrating or buzzing at higher speeds, it’s usually a sign that something’s misaligned in the wheels, drivetrain, or suspension. These vibration noises often start small and build gradually over time. You might notice them in the steering wheel, through your seat, or even under your feet. 

What should I do if my car vibrates while driving?

Slow down and pull over if the vibration feels severe or the car is hard to control. Check your tyres for visible damage or low pressure, then book a wheel alignment or mechanical check to diagnose any worn suspension or drivetrain parts.

Fix now, pay later with flexible car repair finance

If you’re hearing something suspicious, don’t wait until it becomes a major repair. With Bumper’s 

 option, you can split the cost of your fix into interest-free monthly payments, without the pressure of a lump-sum bill. Apply online in seconds, or directly through one of 5,000+ trusted garages and dealerships across the UK. Start now!

Some car noises are perfectly normal and nothing to worry about. These include the hum of tyres on the road, a soft whoosh from the air vents, the gentle sound of the engine idling, and the clicking of indicators. Occasional brake squeaks in wet weather or a faint fan belt sound during a cold start can also be normal. However, if noises become louder, persistent, or unusual, it may be a sign of a developing problem that needs attention.

A healthy engine should run smoothly with a consistent, steady hum. It’s normal to hear a quiet ticking as fuel injectors work, a low growl when accelerating, or a gentle whirring from belts and pulleys. These sounds indicate that components are operating as they should. Loud knocking, rattling, grinding, or high-pitched squealing, however, are not normal engine noises and are usually caused by an issue that needs a mechanic’s inspection.

9 car noises to look out for (and what to do)

Find all the latest industry news and handiest car repair and service tips on the Bumper Blog. Want to get the Bumper view on something? Let us know and we’ll drop a blog post on it as soon as we can.